Pipe fitters Jobs

Without pipe fitters to do the job of assembling, installing, and making changes in pipe systems used to carry water, air, and other liquids and gases into homes and offices, you might be screaming at the top of your lungs for water and cool air.

Although pipe fitters jobs, pipelayer jobs, plumber jobs, sprinklerfitters and steamfitter jobs are considered a single trade, labourers generally specialise in one of the five areas. Pipe fitters jobs involve the installation and repair of high- and low-pressure pipe systems used in the generation of electricity and cooling and heating of buildings.

On the job

Pipe fitters who are hired in building jobs are tasked to install, maintain and repair large pipes in homes and buildings. Pipe fitters also install oil burners, air-conditioning, sprinkling and heating systems, as well as furnaces.

Building jobs like pipe fitters jobs require hired workers to perform the following tasks

  • check the blueprints and work area for the position and placement of pipes
  • cut, thread and hammer pipe according to specifications
  • select pipe types and sizes according to specifications
  • measure and mark pipes for cutting and threading
  • bend the piping manually or with the use of bending machine
  • assemble and secure pipes by welding, brazing, soldering, caulking, gluing, or threading
  • attach pipes to structures and fixtures
  • inspect, examine and test installed pipe lines; remove worn and faulty components
  • modify, clean and maintain pipe systems
  • install automatic controls used to regulate pipe systems
  • operate hand and power tools.

What you should have

Pipe fitters jobs don't have educational requirements, however, you must at least have three years of secondary education. Courses in maths, shop, chemistry and physics could help. To be competitive in the field, you must also have completed apprenticeship programs.

Aside from education and apprenticeship, you must also demonstrate dexterity in handling and operating machines and tools. Knowledge of design techniques and principles in the production of technical plans, blueprints, models, and drawings is useful. Knowledge of safety guidelines, procedures, and measures could work to your advantage. If you're computer literate as well, you just increased your chances of landing the job.

Money matters

Salaries vary depending on experience, level of skills, employer, and location of employment. Some pipe fitters work on contract basis.

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